Texas Governor Greg Abbott has announced water infrastructure investment an emergency priority, emphasizing the need to secure the state’s water supply amid rapid population and business growth. Working with the Texas Legislature, Abbott is pushing for significant funding to improve water access, efficiency, and long-term sustainability, as detailed in a one-pager released by the Governor’s Office.
Texas has already committed over $13 billion in low or no-interest loans for water infrastructure through the State Water Infrastructure Fund for Texas (SWIFT) program. Building on this, an additional $1 billion has been allocated to expand and maintain existing water systems. The state has also launched the New Water Supply for Texas fund, aimed at exploring innovative water solutions.
However, many Texas communities continue to grapple with water shortages. Aging infrastructure and limited resources have particularly strained agriculture in the Rio Grande Valley and West Texas. To address these issues, Abbott’s plan outlines several key initiatives:
- The largest one-time investment in Texas water infrastructure, along with $1 billion annually over the next decade to repair pipelines and expand supply.
- Increased funding for desalination projects and water transfers to move resources from water-abundant regions to areas in need.
- Targeted support for rural communities to maintain and upgrade their water systems.
- A dedicated, long-term funding stream to ensure the sustainability of critical water infrastructure.
Governor Abbott’s ambitious initiative aims to secure Texas’ water future for the next 50 years, ensuring reliable access for residents, businesses, and agriculture alike. By addressing current challenges and planning for future demand, the state hopes to strengthen its resilience against water scarcity as it continues to grow.
